NEWS
Woman Arrested Over Attempt to Smuggle Alcohol Inside Bottled Water Into Ibara Custodial Centre
A woman identified as Shobowale Balikis has been arrested after allegedly attempting to smuggle alcohol into the Ibara Custodial Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Balikis was reportedly intercepted by officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service during a routine screening exercise at the facility on Saturday, September 26, 2026.
According to the Ogun State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service, the incident occurred at about 3:50pm when correctional officers subjected the woman and her belongings to security checks.
During the screening, officers allegedly discovered a substance identified as Ethano concealed inside a bottled-water pack. The substance was reportedly disguised as ordinary drinking water and was allegedly intended to be delivered to an inmate within the custodial facility.
The alertness of the correctional officers prevented the suspected contraband from gaining access to the facility and reaching the inmate population.
Following the interception, Balikis was handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The development forms part of ongoing efforts by correctional authorities to tighten security around custodial centres and prevent inmates from gaining access to prohibited substances, weapons and other items capable of undermining discipline and institutional security.
The Controller of Corrections in Ogun State, Abioye Kamoru Adesina, reiterated the command’s commitment to preventing the introduction of contraband into custodial facilities.
He said officers would continue to maintain strict screening procedures for visitors, packages and other items brought into correctional centres.
The latest incident underscores the importance of stringent security checks at custodial facilities, where authorities are required to balance access for visitors with measures designed to protect the safety, order and security of inmates, personnel and the wider institution.
However, the arrest does not amount to a conviction. The allegation against Balikis remains subject to police investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings.
She is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a competent court.